Santo Domingo.- The president of the Republic, Luis Abinaderobserved the law on solid waste management recently approved by the National Congress, with the objective of achieve a balance between free enterprise and care for the environment and natural resources.
In his communication addressed to the president of the Senate, Ricardo de los SantosAbinader explained that his observations seek protect free competition, avoid monopolistic practices and promote a sustainable industry. The letter was sent last November 3in reference to the modifications made by Congress to the Law no. 225-20.
Key adjustments to application deadlines
Among the changes proposed by the Executive Branch, a 12 month period to eliminate the use of single-use plastics and foamexcept for “laptop” type containers and trays, which will have 24 additional months for not having viable substitutes in the market.
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Likewise, it is granted a year of grace so that businesses start charging for non-biodegradable plastic coverswhile doing awareness campaigns to encourage the use of reusable or eco-friendly bags.
The law too prohibits the import of calimetes, forks, knives, spoons, plastic lids and non-biodegradable products from the 60 days after its promulgation.
Defense of municipal competition and autonomy
Abinader highlighted that his observations seek strengthen economic competition and preserve municipal autonomyconsidering that some provisions approved by Congress limited the powers of city councils over the land use and local waste management.
He also proposed reformulate the criteria to install transfer stations, landfills and recovery plants, so that are not restricted to regional boundariesbut to specific technical and distance conditions.
Review of rates and contracts of the DO Sostenible trust
Regarding the economic aspect, the president suggested reduce the minimum term of contracts between the Sustainable DO Trust and authorized managers, in line with competition regulations.
Furthermore, he maintained the base rate of payment to private managersbut left open the possibility that the trust update values annually according to operating costs, inflation, devaluation and waste transportation.
The presidential remarks also reinforce the Government’s commitment to reduction of plastic and foampromoting the extended producer responsibilitythe decrease in the use of plastic covers and the implementation of packaging return programs.
Abinader appreciated the efforts of the legislators and reiterated his support for a law that combine economic development with environmental sustainability.
Next steps in Congress
Now that the Senate has received the observations, the body must include them in the agenda for your next session and discuss them in single readingaccording to article 102 of the Constitution.
If the two thirds of both chambers approve the project again, the law will be promulgated and published in accordance with the provisions of article 101 of the Magna Carta.
